The Interaction of Aerodynamic Properties and Steering System Characteristics on Passenger Car Handling

Abstract

A computer-based analysis of the crosswind handling performance of a nominal driver-vehicle system is presented. Modifications to the baseline vehicle's aerodynamics, chassis, and steering system properties are utilized in evaluating the influence of such changes on the crosswind handling of the baseline vehicle. A candidate crosswind handling measure, derived from summary results of simulated driving under random crosswind conditions, is offered as one possible method for evaluating improvements or degradations in crosswind handling performance. At high speeds, aerodynamic and tire properties are seen to most strongly affect the crosswind handling evaluation. Steering system compliance was identified as the most influential steering system property affecting the candidate crosswind handling index.